High Point University

What you'll study

The programme comprises advanced graduate-level coursework that strengthens clinical decision-making, leadership and research skills. Students follow a combination of core modules and specialty-specific study, alongside practicum placements or a capstone project.

Core modules

• Advanced Pathophysiology — in-depth study of disease processes relevant to advanced nursing practice.
• Advanced Pharmacology — principles of pharmacotherapeutics and medication management for complex patients.
• Evidence-Based Practice and Research Methods — quantitative and qualitative research design, critical appraisal and translating evidence into practice.
• Healthcare Policy and Ethics — regulatory, policy and ethical frameworks affecting health systems and nursing leadership.
• Leadership and Organisational Management — human resources, quality improvement, budgeting and strategic management in clinical settings.

Specialist pathways

• Nursing Administration — courses in health systems leadership, finance, workforce development and practicum experience supervising clinical teams.
• Nursing Research — advanced methods, data analysis, research design and completion of a thesis or research capstone under faculty supervision.
• Clinical Nursing — focused advanced clinical assessment, diagnostic reasoning and supervised clinical hours in specialty areas aligned with student prior experience and career goals.

Practicum and capstone

All pathways include supervised clinical hours or a practicum placement with partner healthcare organisations and a culminating scholarly project or capstone that demonstrates clinical leadership or research competence.

Entry requirements

• Professional qualification: Registered Nurse (RN) licensure in the jurisdiction where clinical placements will occur.
• Academic background: A recognised bachelor's degree in nursing (BSN) or equivalent from an accredited programme. Candidates with non-nursing degrees plus an approved bridge qualification may be considered for some pathways.
• Clinical experience: Practical nursing experience is normally required; programmes commonly expect at least one to two years of post-registration practice, especially for leadership or clinical tracks.
• Supporting documents: Official transcripts, a current CV or résumé, professional references, and a personal statement outlining professional goals and suitability for advanced study.
• Compliance checks: Current immunisations, background checks and any additional clinical clearance required by placement partners.
• English language: Where English is not the first language, evidence of proficiency in English may be required in line with university policy.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a variety of advanced roles across healthcare organisations, public health and academic settings. Typical career paths include:

• Nurse Administrator / Manager — leading units, departments or service lines, focusing on operations, staffing and quality improvement.
• Clinical Nurse Specialist / Advanced Clinical Practitioner — providing expert clinical care, integrating evidence into practice and mentoring junior staff (role titles vary by region).
• Nurse Researcher — undertaking clinical research, working with multidisciplinary teams to generate and apply evidence to improve patient outcomes.
• Quality and Patient Safety Lead — roles in clinical governance, audit and improvement projects within hospitals and community services.
• Policy, Education and Consultancy — positions in healthcare policy, staff education, and consultancy for health systems or private providers.

Why study at High Point University

• Student-centred learning: High Point University emphasises small class sizes and close faculty supervision, supporting personalised mentorship through advanced clinical training and research supervision.
• Clinical and simulation resources: Students benefit from simulation labs and structured clinical placements with regional healthcare partners to develop hands-on competencies in safe, supervised settings.
• Interprofessional collaboration: The programme encourages working across disciplines, preparing graduates for leadership in multidisciplinary teams and integrated care environments.
• Career support: Dedicated career and placement services help students secure practicum experiences and transition into leadership, clinical speciality or research roles after graduation.